THE DEPARTMENT of Trade and Industry (DTI) has earmarked an initial P10 million for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Marawi City who have been affected by the now more than two months of gunbattle between government forces and religious extremists. “We have a budget of P10 million based on our immediate estimates, but we will wait for as to how many will require livelihood (assistance),” Trade Secretary Ramon M. Lopez said in an interview at the sidelines of a recent forum in Davao City. Mr. Lopez said they estimate that around 2,000 MSMEs will immediately need assistance, but this could not be fully validated yet. The assistance fund will be sourced from the new Pondo sa Pagbabago at Pag-asenso (P3) program, which is specifically intended for MSMEs. “We have existing funds for the P3 which we can easily lend out to traders who are already operating in Marawi’s market to spur activity after the crisis,” he said. One of the main action plans for rehabilitation, he added, is to ensure that construction materials are readily available. Mr. Lopez said initial talks have been undertaken with members of the construction industry to ensure that there will be enough supply for rebuilding efforts. — Carmencita A. Carillo

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